Safety Tips | Emergencies | Alcohol & Drugs | Embracing US Culture
Source SDSU Crime Prevention unit
San Diego is considered a safe
city but precautions are still necessary.
- Do not loan keys to anyone
- Do not identify keys with your address
- Have keys in hand when arriving at your car
- Do not hesitate to contact the police if keys are lost or stolen
- Do not pick up hitchhikers
- Keep doors locked – be alert
at traffic stops
- Do not lower windows for
strangers
- If stalled, ask for aid through
a cracked window; remain in vehicle
- If you think that you are being
followed, make three consecutive right turns. If that person is continues to
follow, do not go to your planned destination. Go to a well-lighted and busy
area and call the police. Make sure to get a description of the person and
vehicle following you.
- Do not walk alone, especially
at night
- Do not take shortcuts: travel
on well-lighted, busy routes
- If followed, change directions,
head for lights and people
- Trust your instincts. Run/or
scream if necessary. Escape a dangerous
situation at the first opportunity
- Remove keys
- Close and lock windows and
doors
- Keep valuables out of sight;
use the trunk
- Choose a well-lighted area to
park at night
- Supply address of incident
- Give number of individuals who
are involved
- Describe what is occurring
- Obtain license numbers of any
cars used and direction of escape
- Obtain description of suspect(s)
(age, height, weight, complexion, clothing)
- Notice if any weapons are
involved
- Stay on phone until told
otherwise
- Consider substantial window
locks
- Maintain lights inside when you
leave; hall or bathroom are good places
- Be aware of the “wrong
number” gimmick; it is often used to see if you are at home (Someone may fake
a wrong number to know if someone is at home)
- If you see a stranger call the
police to check on them
- Make your neighbor aware of
your presence; don’t leave notes on the
outside indicating you’re not home
- Demand identification from
strangers, salesmen and solicitors before
admitting
- Avoid keeping large sums of
money or expensive valuables in you room
- Play radio at low volume when
away; use timers for the radio and lights
- If you find a broken window, DO
NOT ENTER! Call the police immediately
- Maintain an inventory of all valuables using serial number and description
Unlike
many countries, the advertising for alcoholic beverages is allowed in the US.
You will see commercials on TV promoting beer and other alcoholic beverages.
This emphasizes the temptation of drinking alcohol, so that reaching 21 for
young people is synonymous with freedom.
Drinking and driving
In
California, it is unlawful for a person to drive with a Blood Alcohol Content of
.08 percent or above.
If
you are arrested under suspicion of Driving Under the Influence (DUI) your are
required by the California Law to submit to a chemical test to determine your
blood alcohol content (BAC). Three tests are offered: blood, urine or breath.
If
the test shows you have a blood alcohol content of .08 percent or more, your
license will be taken away on the spot. An administrative "PER SE"
order of suspension is given. The suspension becomes effective in 30 days after
it is issued. Upon completion of implied consent, you will be booked into county
jail.
TOBACCO
It is important to study American culture before you visit. Individuals who are aware of our culture and the attitudes of other people are more likely to succeed both in work and play. Knowledge of American culture makes it easier to make friends and business contacts.
Be open minded and
ready to embrace new things
There are many subtle differences that separate the U.S. from other parts of the world. “Americans” are not afraid to express their personal opinions or individuality. They are mostly accepting of the homo-sexual lifestyle, although this varies from individual to individual. If you come from a conservative country it may take you a while to adjust to these values. Living in a new country requires adaptations and the first few weeks may be difficult.
Knowledge of own
culture
As a foreigner you represent your culture and will share it with others. Sharing your own culture will also allow you to discover the differences between U.S. culture and that of your home country.
Those with a positive attitude and strong desire to learn will have little difficulty adapting to a new culture. You have made the decision to embark on a life altering experience and this shows you are ready for the challenge. Use your own judgment and discretion in deciding what and what not to do. Don’t worry about what others think, individualism is a highly valued quality in The United States.
Express yourself
but don’t make bad decisions
Americans are happy to help foreigners adjust to our culture. Embracing the culture and meeting people will lead to an experience you will remember for the rest of your life. Do not worry if you have difficulty at first and keep in mind, there is a transition period when adjusting to a new culture. If you make a mistake or social blunder, keep in mind it has all been done before and no great harm will come of it.
It is also important to realize that in the U.S., like everywhere, alcohol or drugs only provide a temporary break from reality and will not fix any problem you may be having.
Relationships
(Dating)